Fetal movements are an important sign of fetal well-being. A first-time mother usually feels fetal movements for the first time around 18–20 weeks of pregnancy and a woman who has given birth before around 16–18 weeks of pregnancy.
Revised 9/7/2026
The movements of the foetus are transmitted through the uterine wall to the nerves of the abdominal wall. Feeling the movements is affected, for example, by the position of the foetus, the location of the placenta, the direction in which the foetus kicks, and the intensity of the movements. Therefore, how and where the foetus's movements are felt may vary.
When the foetus receives enough oxygen and nutrients through the placenta, the foetus moves normally. Usually, foetuses move about 3–50 times per hour and occasionally take breaks of about 20–40 minutes. The movements can be either individual nudges or series of movements, very weak movements or strong kicks. The amount of fetal movements remains almost the same throughout the pregnancy, but they feel different. Maternal movement or physical exertion can temporarily reduce the feeling of fetal movements.
Every foetus is already an individual at this stage and moves at its own rhythm. For this reason, the movement of foetuses cannot be fully compared to one's own previous pregnancies or to the sensations of other women. It is normal that the baby's movements do not feel exactly the same every day. However, it is important to note that in late pregnancy, movements should be felt several times a day.
If fetal movements decrease or become weak, it is recommended to do a kick count and readily contact the maternity hospital if necessary. A decrease in movements can be a sign of an incipient lack of oxygen in the foetus, which must always be taken seriously.
Movement counting is recommended from around 32 weeks of pregnancy onwards, especially if the foetus is moving sluggishly or if you become concerned about the foetus moving. You should feel at least 10 movements within one hour.
Movement counting is always done while lying on your side. All distinct movements are counted. Movement caused by hiccups is not counted. If 10 movements are not reached within one hour, movement counting should be repeated after a short while. In this case, it is advisable to eat or drink something sweet between movement counts. If the required number of movements is still not reached, you must contact the maternity hospital.